Little Stars

by Jan Lefebvre

"Like Lorna Landvik and J. Ryan Stradal, Jan Lefebvre has a wonderful ear for the cadence of Midwestern life, and an appreciation for the small moments between us that are so much bigger. There's heartbreak in this book, but also so much good humor, and hope. Reading this beautifully tender novel, I kept thinking that if A Man Called Ove were set in Central Minnesota in the 1970s, it might be a little bit like this. In the end, Little Stars is a plea for compassion and kindness in this world, and we need it."



Shannon Olson, author of Welcome to My Where English Is Sometimes Spoken and Children of God Go Bowling.





Sal Schmidt, a middle-aged bachelor in 1974, lives a lonely life in central Minnesota, employed as a maintenance worker while caring for his mentally ill brother, Art. When a sudden event forces Sal into a moment of heroism and, thereby, local celebrity, his secluded ways spin out of control, forcing him to live in the larger world he avoids and mistrusts. He discovers that, when he was young and serving in the Navy, his mother betrayed him, causing Sal to lose his chance at love and leading him to descend into seclusion. The shock of his mother's betrayal sets Sal yearning for what might have been, and he finally acts, daring to dream of romance and wondering if he might attain a ray of happiness if he is brave enough to let in a little light.

272 pages, Kindle Edition

Published January 2, 2025

Reviews

[Abby Wiedmeyer · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a beautiful book. I was emotionally invested in each character as soon as they were introduced. There are so many great side stories that not only entertain, but really fill out the characters. I just loved every bit of it.

[Maria Bichler · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rarely have I read a book on the lower end of a word count that packs a poignant punch and is a page turner. I became so invested in the characters within this book. The way the author wove the culture of central Minnesota into the book was seamless. I hope Jan releases more novels. This book is worth your time.

[Helen Swanson · Rating 5 out of 5]

I might be bias but I love this book. Thank you Jan for putting yourself out there.

[Emily · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved this little gem. I hope Jan writes another novel! I was laughing out loud, crying quietly, and remembering nuggets from my childhood as I read Little Stars.